WOLFSBURG — Volkswagen unveiled its groundbreaking integration of ChatGPT into the IDA voice assistant at CES 2024, held from January 9-12, marking a significant advancement in in-car technology. This innovative feature, built on Cerence Chat Pro technology from Cerence Inc., will be standard in many of Volkswagen’s production vehicles starting in the second quarter of 2024, including popular models like the ID.3, ID.4, ID.5, the new Tiguan, Passat, and Golf, according to a press release published on EuropaWire.

The integration of ChatGPT into Volkswagen’s vehicles allows drivers to access a vast database of artificial intelligence while on the move, enabling the IDA voice assistant to handle a broader range of commands beyond traditional vehicle controls. This includes managing infotainment and navigation, adjusting air conditioning, and even engaging in more complex interactions like answering general knowledge questions or providing vehicle-specific information—all through intuitive, hands-free voice commands.

Kai Grünitz, Member of the Board of Management Volkswagen Brand for Technical Development, emphasized Volkswagen’s commitment to making advanced technology accessible. “Volkswagen has always democratised technology and made it accessible to the many. This is simply ingrained in our DNA. As a result, we are now the first volume manufacturer to make this innovative technology a standard feature in vehicles from the compact segment upwards,” said Grünitz.

The implementation of ChatGPT within Volkswagen vehicles is designed with user privacy and data security as paramount. The system ensures that all interactions are deleted immediately after processing to maintain the highest level of data protection, with no vehicle data accessed by the AI.

Stefan Ortmanns, CEO of Cerence, highlighted the strength of the partnership with Volkswagen and the potential of their collaboration. “We are proud to build on our automotive expertise and our long-standing partnership with Volkswagen to offer its customers new innovations that leverage generative AI and large language models – even after they have purchased a vehicle,” Ortmanns stated. He added, “With Cerence Chat Pro, VW is empowered with an automotive-grade ChatGPT integration that offers unmatched flexibility, customization, and ease of deployment, while prioritizing security and usability for drivers.”

This announcement at CES 2024 not only sets a new standard for automotive AI integrations but also underscores Volkswagen and Cerence’s leadership in driving the future of automotive user experiences.